School officials highlight chronic absenteeism's impact on student performance

During a recent meeting of the Government Efficiency and Legislative Oversight Committee's Education and Cultural Affairs Subcommittee, significant concerns were raised regarding chronic absenteeism in South Carolina schools. The discussion highlighted that in the 2022-2023 school year, 20% of students were classified as chronically absent, meaning they missed at least 10% of the school year. This alarming statistic has direct implications for academic performance and overall student success.

Committee members emphasized the need for a closer examination of the relationship between school funding and student performance, urging stakeholders to consider how resources are allocated in relation to attendance rates. The conversation underscored the importance of addressing absenteeism as a critical factor affecting educational outcomes.

The subcommittee plans to revisit this topic in future meetings, indicating a commitment to exploring solutions that could improve attendance and, consequently, academic achievement. As discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed in their educational journey.